Description
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and low-carb twist on a classic comfort dish. Packed with crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a rich sour cream base, it delivers all the indulgence of a loaded baked potato—without the guilt. Perfect for keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diets!
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
1 large head of cauliflower (about 2½ pounds), cut into florets
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Toppings
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
2 green onions, finely sliced
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins
½ cup cooked diced ham (for extra protein)
¼ tsp smoked paprika (for extra depth)
¼ cup grated Parmesan (for a sharp, cheesy bite)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Mash the Cauliflower
Transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl. Mash with a potato masher or process in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Leave some small chunks if you prefer texture.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
Add cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. Spoon in the cauliflower mixture and smooth the top. Sprinkle ¾ cup cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella evenly over it.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the cheese, reserving a bit for garnish.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with the remaining cheddar, green onions, and parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Dry cauliflower well before mashing to avoid a watery casserole.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture.
Add crunch by topping with a mix of cheese and crushed pork rinds or breadcrumbs.
Adjust spice by adding cayenne or jalapeños for a kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: Loaded Cauliflower Casserole, Keto Casserole, Cheesy Cauliflower Bake, Low Carb Comfort Food